Nursing Students’ Experiences in School-Based Mental Health Promotion : A Qualitative Study in Chile

Abstract

Background: Mental health problems are increasingly common among children and adolescents, making schools a key setting for health promotion. Nurses can play a central role in prevention and support, but in Chile, the role of the school nurse has not yet been formally established. Understanding nursing students’ experiences in school-based mental health promotion can inform curriculum development and strengthen professional identity. Methods: A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was conducted with third-year nursing students enrolled in a mental health course (N = 64). Data was collected through six individual interviews and one focus group, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using ATLAS.ti 25.0.1®. To ensure rigor, the study was guided by the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ), and trustworthiness was ensured following Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Results: Five main categories emerged: nursing’s role in mental health promotion; perceptions of health promotion as prevention; use of the educational process, with difficulties in formulating objectives; perceived self-efficacy, marked by initial uncertainty in working with children; and experiences in implementing projects, including reflections on the professional role, mixed feelings, facilitators, barriers, and coping strategies. Facilitators included faculty support, teacher collaboration, and group cohesion, while barriers were related to limited experience, challenges in managing children, and external conditions such as noise and unsuitable classroom conditions. Conclusions: School-based practicums in mental health promotion are valuable opportunities to integrate theory and practice, strengthen professional identity, and develop communication. Strengthening undergraduate curricula with systematic training in these areas is essential for preparing nurses for their role in school and community health. Integrating these experiences into clinical and assistive practice can enhance early detection, interprofessional collaboration, and the promotion of healthier school environments.